Abby Tietz

Claremore High School

Inspiration can come in many forms from various types of people or places. People who inspire others can be groundbreakers in a specific field. In high school varsity football, there are a few who create their own mold. That’s exactly what Abby Tietz of Claremore High School has done.

Abby started playing football in middle school. Tackle football. It didn’t take long for her to realize it was the sport for her. Currently, Abby is a kicker for the Zebras.

“I started playing football in 7th grade. Honestly, the first few days I started playing is when I realized it was for me. I also wrestle and play soccer for CHS. When I have the time, I tumble,” Abby said.

It’s not common to see a girl playing football at the varsity level, so when it happens people take notice. Abby has worked hard to get where she is and believes she is now just one of the players on the team.

“I love the atmosphere they have. Being a girl makes it difficult sometimes, but my teammates are understanding and sometimes I feel like they don’t even see me as a girl on the football team. They see me as a teammate instead,” Abby said. “Also, I have to be around girls a lot in my other sports and sometimes that can be very hard especially with all the drama but in football there is none of that. In my other sports, you always have to worry about what your wearing, if you’re doing it right, trying not to sound mean or make a face that could hurt someone but in football, you don’t have to worry about that stuff because they simply just don’t care, and they don’t feed into that drama. If you mess up, yes, they are going to laugh at you but then they will help you and try to make you better.”

Abby said the coaches have made a big impact in her life and they are a big reason she has stayed with the program.

“The way they treat us as one of their own is just so special to me. I hope these men stay in my life, because as a high schooler, they have impacted my life so much that it has helped me become a better person. The lessons they have taught me will help me in my adult life. I don’t think I could find coaches like them at other schools. Aside from the coaches, our athletic facilities are extremely nice. Even though we have only had the new weightlifting facility for just a year, I feel like I have improved as an athlete,” said Abby.

Understanding she may be a source of inspiration for girls playing sports, Abby represents herself and her school in a way that allows the younger generation to see what can happen when you work hard and push yourself. Abby draws inspiration from her grandmother, someone she respects alongside her family and coaches.